INKISH.NEWS -

The 'glue' that enables automation

We all talk about automation as something we "just" do. However, automation requires a lot behind the scenes operations to work. Have you ever considered how different brands and different types of equipment works together? It's not just about a "cable" connecting the devices.

The reason why I wanted to touch upon CIP4 and their importance now, is of course, to the Think Smart Factory event in Kyoto, that starts today November 11th. Practically all exhibitors at Think Smart Factory are members of CIP4, and therefore, all are involved in defining the standards that seamlessly makes integration and therefore, automation possible.Automation and the exchange of data is all part of the bigger mantra many are talking about these years, namely Industry 4.0 and Internet of Things (IoT). INKISH will during the next days speak to some of the exhibitors about the importance of standards specifically and look forward to showing you automation in end-to-end applications.

What enables automation is for the most based on standards defined by the organisation CIP4. CIP4 is a members organisation where the members from all corners of the industry (vendors, printers, software developers, etc.) meet and define the so-called JDF/XJDF standards. JDF is short for Job Definition Format, and popularly speaking, JDF is similar to the job-tickets that you use in your printing company. The JDF is technically an XML file that carries the data needed for a device to understand what's expected.

The difference between XJDF and JDF is a bit more complex, but again to simplify. JDF is the older standard where the intention is, and was, to define a complete job. XJDF is the new and fresh initiative that again very simply is made to define how data is exchanged between devices. The latter is simpler, and I believe that many vendors are working against the new standard, rather than building very job-tickets, however, let's talk more about later.

Some of the promises already given are printers, and binding equipment, with considerably fewer operators. Fewer operators mean less labour cost, but also enable printers to deliver with way fewer errors.

The interesting part that I haven't been able to see yet is what standards are used when connecting to, i.e. robots, but I have been told that we might see a robot in action here at Think Smart Factory, so rest assured!

Nov 10, 2019

Author: Morten B. Reitoft